Read “How to Grow a Mind: Statistics, Structure, and Abstraction” by Joshua B. Tenenbaum, Charles Kemp, Thomas L. Griffiths, and Noah D. Goodman. This provides an overview of the approach taken by many of the models we’ll be looking at.
a) How do Bayesian computational models differ from other kinds of reasoning systems you may be familiar with (formal logic, algebra, connectionism, deep learning, etc.)?
Javascript. Experienced programmers who need an introduction to Javascript may find the appendix on Javascript sufficient. Students who have limited experience programming are encouraged to check out Introduction to JavaScript from Codeacademy (esp. Chapters 1-8).
Background in Mathematics. This textbook requires a basic understanding of probability theory. The Khan Academy has a gentle introduction that should be sufficient for most students.